Seasonal Flow Variation and Electricity Production

Seasonal Rainfall and Evapotranspiration

In Ireland we get a good distribution of precipitation right across the year, but with significant concentration in the months from October through to March.  We're fortunate that this 'rainy season' coincides with when we have the highest energy demand in our homes, businesses and schools, and it makes hydropower all the more ideal to meet our energy needs.

fig (i) Seasonal Precipitation and River Flow.

In fig. (i) you can see the seasonal variation in precipitation across the year in a catchment in the east of the country.   

As a rough guide, there's a ratio of about 2:1 between the precipitation in the winter months and in the summer months, but it would not unusual for the period from October to March to get significantly more.